Binghamton Man Pleads Guilty to Animal Abuse Charges

A Binghamton man admitted to abusing several animals just before his trial was set to get underway.

Authorities say 39-year-old John Elmer of Clinton Street pleaded guilty Thursday to overdriving, torturing and injuring animals, as well as failure to provide proper sustenance.

Elmer also admitted to failing to provide proper food and drink to animals and possessing wild animals as pets.

Under the plea deal, Elmer forfeited ownership of the animals that had been seized by investigators. He also must divest himself of any animals he still owns and register with the Broome County Animal Abuser Registry.

The case against Elmer began in March when the New York State Attorney General's office received a complaint about possible neglect of animals at a Town of Sanford residence.

Investigators executed a search warrant at property owned by Elmer at 34 Hawkins Road on April 12.

Four sheep, four foxes, two cats and a donkey were seized because of unhealthy living conditions and severe malnourishment.

The animals are said to have recovered after they were taken to a Watkins Glen sanctuary.